Ingredients
Scale
The key to this dish lies in selecting the right ingredients, especially quality ground beef and fresh buns. When I first started cooking professionally in the US, I quickly learned that even the simplest recipes hinge on the freshness and balance of their components. Don’t be tempted to skip the seasoning or the special sauce—it’s what elevates these from good to unforgettable.
- 1 pound (450g) ground chuck beef (80/20 fat ratio for juiciness)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 soft burger buns, preferably brioche or potato buns
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon ketchup
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped pickles or relish
- Butter, for toasting buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, red onion rings
If you prefer a leaner option, ground sirloin works well, but be mindful to not overcook as it dries out faster. For a tangier sauce twist, swap Dijon for yellow mustard or add a splash of hot sauce.
Instructions
- Preheat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. While it warms up, gently mix the ground beef with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cayenne, salt, and black pepper. Avoid overmixing to keep burgers tender.
- Divide the beef mixture into four equal portions and form into patties slightly larger than your buns, making a small dimple in the center of each to prevent puffing during cooking.
- Place patties on the hot pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side without moving them, allowing a crust to form.
- Flip the patties, add a slice of cheddar cheese to each, and cook for another 3 minutes for medium doneness. Adjust timing if you prefer more or less cooked.
- While the burgers cook, spread butter on the insides of the buns and toast them lightly in a separate pan or on the grill until golden and crisp.
- Mix mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, and chopped pickles in a small bowl to create the signature sauce.
- Assemble your burgers: spread sauce on the bottom bun, add the patty with melted cheese, and top with optional lettuce, tomato, and onion before capping with the top bun.
- Serve immediately while juicy and warm, ready for that first satisfying bite.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
